Growing Asclepias (Milkweed)
Latin Name Pronunciation: uh-sklee'pee-us
The genus Asclepias, commonly known as Milkweed, comprises more than 100 species, the best known of which are North American wildflowers. They have small, curiously shaped blooms that appear in clusters and are irresistible to butterflies. Milkweed is the host plant for Monarch butterflies - it is the only food source for Monarch caterpillars, and the butterflies will breed only where Milkweeds are found.
Asclepias tuberosa is native to eastern North America and is commonly referred to as Butterfly Weed. It blooms in June and July and makes a fine addition to a hot-colored border. It Butterfly weed needs well-drained soil and full sun. Swamp milkweed, Asclepias incarnata, grows naturally in moist soil rich in organic matter. It is well-adapted to good garden soil, and can take some shade. Both milkweed species are polite clumping perennials that may modestly self-sow, but will not spread underground.
Grow Guide for Asclepias incarnataPlant Asclepias incarnata in moisture-retentive soil, rich in organic matter, in full sun or part shade. Swamp milkweed is a natural in rain gardens, sunny borders and wet meadows.
This perennial milkweed is quite late to emerge from dormancy in spring. Mark the location or leave 6" of stem if you cut back after killing frost, so you don't plant something on top of them.
Cut plants back by 1/3 to 1/2 in early summer to encourage strong bushy growth. More stems mean more flowers. Deadheading early blooms often results in a second flowering about a month later.
This genus, commonly known as Milkweed, consists of many North American native species, and is most notable for attracting butterflies. Their flowers are excellent nectar sources, and the plants are the sole host for the larval stage of the Monarch butterfly. Use Asclepias incarnata in pollinator gardens, pond edges, rain gardens, sunny borders, and wet meadows.
Grow Guide for Asclepias tuberosaAsclepias tuberosa grows best planted in hot, baking full sun. It requires well-drained, not overly rich soil and will thrive even in nutrient-poor sandy or gravelly soils.
This perennial milkweed is quite late to emerge from dormancy in spring. Mark the location, leave 6" of stem if you cut back after killing frost, or simply leave the plant standing through winter, so you don't plant something on top of them.
Cut plants back by 1/3 to 1/2 in early summer to encourage strong bushy growth. More stems mean more flowers. Deadheading early blooms often results in a second flowering about a month later.
This genus, commonly known as Milkweed, consists of many North American native species, and is most notable for attracting butterflies. Their flowers are excellent nectar sources, and the plants are the sole host for the larval stage of the Monarch butterfly. Use Asclepias tuberosa in pollinator gardens, sunny borders, and meadows.
